With summers approaching so fast, how could AIKGA ‘Summer Special Session’ be far behind? It was a pleasant evening and the setting was perfect for gar-den lovers. Sucheta hosted the meeting on her terrace which was sublime with lush green plants, decorative vines, sassy succulents, gorgeous cacti, and aromatic herbs. While winter flowers were still exuding joy, summer flowers could not contain their enthusiasm and were peeping out here and there. Soft pea-green grass beneath the feet was very eye soothing. Colorful flowers arranged neatly in rows invited birds and bees and made the place look very charming.
It was a full house as the session was conducted by none other than the learned Shyama Balbir who spoke passionately on the topic. Here are some pearls of wisdom shared by her. March is a good time to repot the plants if they have outgrown their pots. It is incredibly important to prepare the soil mixture and fill the pots properly as strong foundations ensure plants can endure whatever nature throws at them. If some plants don’t need repotting, remove a few inches of top soil and replenish it with a healthy soil mixture. Don’t let dry leaves make their way to the garbage, they are gold for the plants. If you throw away lemon peels, banana peels, and onion peels etc, think twice and ask any garden expert. These can be converted into bio enzymes which are magical tonics. They not only fertilize the plants but also boost their immunity. Every weed has a story to tell. They are much-maligned plants misunderstood by humans. They are actually sources of nutritious food and potent medicine. They conserve the soil and increase microbial activity. When the monsoon comes, simply turn them in the soil.
If you plan to grow summer vegetables, pay attention that some vegetables like ghiya and tori need help of pollinators. Fruits grow on secondary and tertiary branches rather than on the primary branch. Shyama madam’s knowledge is vast and members’ curiosity immense, but all good things come to an end. The meeting ended with a scrumptious and elaborate feast, and Gupshup over chai and samosas.
by Anuradha Ahuja (9811108778)
